Recognised worldwide and entitling the holder to fly single engine aircraft as Pilot in Command in non-commercial operations on aeroplanes or touring motor gliders in UK, and Europe. Additional training can add ratings to fly more complex aircraft, night and instrument flying.

Requirements

Minimum age 14 years to count towards hours logged, 16 years to fly solo, 17 years to gain a PPL.

You will need to complete 45 hours of flight instruction on aeroplanes, including at least

1. 25 hours of dual flight instruction,

2. 10 hours of supervised solo flight time, including at least 5 hours of solo cross country flight time with at least 1 cross country flight of at least 270 km (150 NM) that includes full stop landings at 2 aerodromes different from the departure aerodrome.

You will need to complete a two part skill test (Navigation and General Handling) after you have completed all the flying requirements. The Examiner will include an oral test and an informal assessment of proficiency in English. The skills test lasts approximately 2-2.5 hours and can be counted towards the 45 hour minimum.

All training, examinations and skills tests are available at Shropshire Aero Club. Typically it takes about a year and costs on average £8000-£9500 depending on ability and how regularly you fly.

Initially no equipment is required, but if you decide to continue your flight training you will need a logbook, aircraft checklist, instruction manuals, navigation instruments. These can be purchased as you progress or you can buy a SAC customised PPL study pack at a greatly reduced price.

2. LAPL Light Aircraft Pilots Licence

Slightly lower requirements therefore less cost, but more restricted.

Minimum 32 hours flying training including at least

15 hours of dual flight instruction in the class of aircraft you will be taking your skill test in - either a single-engine piston (SEP) aeroplane or TMG.

6-hours of supervised solo flight time, including at least 3 hours of solo cross country flight time with at least 1 cross country flight of at least 150 km (80 NM) that includes 1 full stop landing at an aerodrome different from the departure aerodrome

Medical Certificate equivalent of DVLA class 1 or 2 and can be performed by a GP